Sheffield Parents Demand Smartphone Ban in Schools

Sheffield City Council is considering a ban on smartphones in classrooms following a petition from parents and carers. Campaign group Smartphone Free Childhood presented their concerns, supported by approximately 800 signatures, highlighting negative impacts on children's attention, learning, and social development. They advocate for delaying smartphone ownership until age 14 and social media use until 16.

Councillors on the education, children and families policy committee have agreed to establish a working group to examine the issue. This group will involve schools, public health experts, researchers, and the council to determine a course of action. The group aims to raise awareness and discuss safeguarding mental health and wellbeing through a "pro-child" approach.

While acknowledging that the council cannot mandate school policies, the campaign emphasized the importance of raising awareness. Some public feedback suggests a mixed view, with one resident suggesting phones be removed during class time but allowed during breaks for parental contact. Others noted that removing classroom distractions could benefit learning, with an understanding that emergency contact protocols might be needed.